- Address: Incallajta, Bolivia
- Height above sea level: 2950 m
One of the most important architectural monuments of Bolivia is the ruins of Inkalyakhty, which were once a fortress. Literally its name from the Quechua aboriginal language is translated as "the city of the Incas".
Inkalyahta is located about 130 km east of the city of Cochabamba in the municipality of Pocona, at an altitude of 2,950 m above sea level. At present, the ruins attract the attention of not only experienced and novice archaeologists. On ordinary travelers, this landmark also makes an indelible impression.
Historical significance of Incalhayti
The fortress was built in the far XV century, when Inka Yupanqui ruled the country. The area of the settlement on which Inkalyakhta was located was about 80 hectares. At the next governor, Wyna Kapaké, the settlement was reconstructed. Inkalyahta herself at that time served as a military fortress and defensive line. It was also the political and administrative center of Kolasuyu.
Architectural features of the fortress
The main building of Inkalyakhta is the building of Hookah. The building, reaching a length of 25 m and a height of 78 m, in pre-Columbian America was considered the largest building under the roof. Earlier, the roof rested on pillars, which were 24. The diameter of the columns at their base reached 2 m. For a long time the territory of Inkalyakhty was abandoned, and the first excavations were conducted by a group from the University of Pennsylvania under the leadership of Lawrence Coben at the beginning of the 21st century.
How to get to the ruins?
From the Bolivian city of Cochabamba to the ruins of Incalhayta can be accessed in two ways. The easiest thing: to catch a taxi in the city. In this way you will reach directly to the archaeological site. Two hours along the asphalt road will cost about $ 20. Another way: walking tour in the tourist group. Tourists gather from nearby towns and follow up to Inkaljata. This walk costs about a lot cheaper, besides it will be more informative for you.
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